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The Educational Challenge of the Multi-Disciplinary Nature of Nanoscience

D.M. NewberryDakota County Technical College, US

Keywords:nanotechnology, education, multi-disciplinary, curriculum

Abstract:The convergence of physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, engineering and math in the hopper that is nanoscience is posing a challenge for both industry and educational institutions. Yet it is often this interdisciplinary challenge that results in the most advanced developments in nanotechnology. In many cases, industry is responding with integrated, multi-disciplinary teams where area experts can learn from and teach each other. Educational settings tend to be more stove-piped and discipline oriented which can prevent this cross training. The educational approach of active learning environments coupled with strong industry-educational links may offer an opportunity to bring the benefits of multi-disciplinary learning to nanoscience programs. This paper will discuss the challenges in creation of a multidisciplinary curricula and how various educational institutions are responding to the challenge of educating teachers, students and incumbent workers. This work is based on NSF funded programs at DCTC, Univ. of MN, Univ. of MI, Northwestern and others.